President Uhuru Kenyatta visits North Eastern with a bag full of goodies

President Uhuru Kenyatta with Deputy President William Ruto during the official launch of the Elwak-Rhamu road in Mandera County.

President Uhuru Kenyatta yesterday commissioned the tarmacking of a Sh2.5 billion road to open up North Eastern region.

He launched the Elwak–Rhamu road, a 135km section, which will be constructed in three phases; Elwak-Wargadud, Wargadud-Bambo and Bambo-Rhamu.

The President, his deputy William Ruto and several leaders from the region commissioned the project in Elwak town on the first day of his working visit in the region.

Speaking when he launched the Elwak-Wargadud section, Mr Kenyatta said that his visit affirms his Government's determination to ensure that no part of the country lags behind in development.

"We want to ensure that lack of development will no longer be used as a political tool. We assure you that the Jubilee Government will remain focused in its all-inclusive approach to development," the President said, adding that the road will boost the region's economy.

The President said that the Government has increased the number of security officers and equipped them adequately to address the challenges of insecurity across the region.

He urged residents to co-operate with the security agencies by exposing criminals.

Kenyatta also urged the residents to shun divisive politics and live together in harmony as Kenyans.

Further, the President said the national government is working with the county government to boost health services.

The Government, he said, will spend Sh380 million to provide specialised equipment under the Managed Equipment Service project at Elwak Level 4 Hospital, and a similar amount to improve facilities at Mandera Hospital.

Kenyatta also disclosed that his government has set aside Sh50 million for a Medical Training College at Elwak that will be constructed jointly with the Mandera county government.

The Government, he added, is also working with the Inter Governmental Authority on Development to fast-track implementation of an irrigation project at River Dawa.

Mr Ruto said Jubilee will not waver in its focus to develop the country. "Our visit here is proof that we are steadfast in our commitment to develop all parts of the country," said the DP.